The two sides discussed cooperation between the municipality and Italy to promote the existing museums in Jeddah and the preservation of the city’s historic center.
Sami Nawwar, director of the municipality’s Department of Tourism and Antiquities, briefed the meeting about the programs being undertaken by the municipality in building and preserving museums.
The municipality is making efforts to restructure museums and antiquities in Jeddah, he said, adding that discussions are under way to build new museums in the historical area. Nawwar said the museums that are being renovated include Abruq Al-Naamah, Al-Bunt and Al-Haj in addition to the municipality museum, Naseef House and the Open Museum on Prince Faisal bin Fahd Street.
“Other private museums, including Safeya Benzagr Gallery, Abdul Raouf Khalil Museum, will also be restored,” he added.
According to Nawwar, other historical sites in Jeddah include an old mosque where King Abdul Aziz, the founder of Saudi Arabia, used to pray and receive citizens. He said the mosque has been refurbished. They also include Khuzam Palace, which was built by King Abdul Aziz. The palace still contains a number of belongings of the late king, including his office equipment, dishes, spectacles, watch, mirror and others.
